Blazing Star January 1, 1970

Blazing star (Liatris sp.) takes its name from the dazzling magenta-purple flower spikes that shoot from the low clump of grassy foliage that forms the base of the plant. The interesting thing about this North American wildflower is you can grow it from either corms or seeds. The corms will flower the first year, but seeds take two years to mature.

Like most native plants, blazing star is a tough cookie that tolerates poor soil and dry conditions. It’s a stellar choice for xeriscaping or planting in spots without irrigation.